Embarking on a plant-based adventure?

If you’re starting the new year by dipping a toe into veganism, the switch to a meat-free way of living has never been easier to make.

As well as permanent all-vegan fixtures such as Earth Cafe on Cork’s South Mall and 143 on the Lower Glanmire Road, more shops and restaurants than ever are jumping on the Veganuary bandwagon, rolling out a mouthwatering selection of new deals and dishes to help you on your way.

From vegan sausage rolls for frosty winter mornings to melted vegan cheese and meat-free meatball marinara to fill you up at lunchtime, there are loads of tempting options to grab on the go if you plan on avoiding meat and dairy for the year.

Here are five vegan launches to look out for this month:

1. KFC’S NEW VEGAN BURGER

Missing the taste of your usual KFC? No need to skip your weekly visit – the restaurant worked with Quorn to create a no-chicken fillet burger with all the same herbs and spices as the original but none of the meat. The burger is topped with crunchy lettuce and a dollop of vegan mayo.

2. CAFFÉ NERO’S VEGAN CROISSANTS

As part of their new ‘Veganero’ menu launching on January 8th, 2020, Caffé Nero will be introducing plant-based raspberry croissants and vegan sausage rolls. You can also expect a Vegan Salted Caramel and Chocolate Cheesecake and a Vegan ‘Meatball’ Panini at the Oliver Plunkett Street café.

3. SUBWAY’S VEGAN MEATBALLS

Stop by a Subway sandwich shop this month and you can sink your teeth into a Meatless Meatball Marinara, a vegan version of their popular meaty classic. The sandwich is filled with plant-based meatballs in tomato sauce, topped with melted vegan cheese.

4. BOOJUM’S SWEET POTATO & LENTILS

Launching this Tuesday, January 7th, customers will be able to enjoy a new Boojum dish in their burritos, bowls or tacos in Cork’s Winthrop Street store. Their new Sweet Potato & Lentil dish is a hefty helping of nutritional goodness topped with pickled onions, guacamole and vegan sour cream.

5. ALDI’S ORGANIC SUPER 6

On Thursday, January 9th, for the first time ever, Aldi’s Super 6 Fruit and Veg Offers will comprise of only organic fruit and veggies. Organic Lemons (79c), Organic Fairtrade Bananas (79c), Organic Carrots (49c), Organic Twin Pack Peppers (49c), Organic Onions (49c) and Organic Celery (49c) will be available until January 15th so get in and stock the fridge.